Pirates catcher brushes off Cabrera's playful act

Pittsburgh – Just two Venezuelan guys having fun.

That's the story behind all the jawing that's been going on between countrymen Miguel Cabrera and Pirates catcher Francisco Cervelli, going back to spring training.

"It's joking," Cervelli told MLB.com after the Tigers' 2-0 win Tuesday. "I've got no problem. That's the way we play. I like to talk a lot when I'm catching, and he talks a lot, too. It's nothing bad."

Cabrera, who has been booed in every plate appearance on the road, didn't endear himself to the Pirates faithful when he slapped the ball out of Cervelli's hand after striking out in the fourth inning.

Cervelli dropped the third strike and was gently applying a tag.

"That's his game, man," Pirates pitcher A.J. Burnett told MLB.com. "He's a little kid playing baseball, and that's just what he does.

"As much as you don't want him to hurt you, it's fun to watch him in certain ways, see how he goes about his business."

Cabrera, who was not available for comment after the game, and Burnett were teammates with the Marlins from 2003-2005.

Chris McCosky on Twitter @cmccosky